The statistic thats spells optimism for Swansea fans

Already Garry Monk's side have secured an impressive nine points from just four matches, enjoying a three-match winning streak in the process. Following convincing victories over Manchester United, Burnley and West Bromwich Albion, the club held a well-earned lead at the summit of the division table.

However, the Welsh outfit experienced their first taste of defeat on the weekend, conceding a 4-2 scoreline to current top flight leaders Chelsea. Diego Costa proved the difference between the two sides, scoring a hat-trick as he continued to re-pay his £32 million transfer fee.

Nonetheless, this loss will have had a miniscule impact on the Swansea supporters' moral. Few would have expected the club to overcome the Blues, and despite failing to secure any points, Monk's side still sit pretty in third place.

In spite of their current league standing, the following statistic is perhaps the greatest positive to take from the club's early season form:

7 - No team has ever taken more than 7 points from their first 4 games and been relegated from the Premier League. Safe. @TheSwanseaWay

Considering Monk's pre-season targets are likely to have been set at avoiding relegation, his side already find themselves in a extremely commanding position. If history repeats itself, the 35-year-old can expect a fourth successive Premier League campaign next term; a situation supporters could only have dreamed of a decade ago.

Next up for the Swans, a home clash versus an in-form Southampton. A victory over Ron Koeman's rejuvenated side will provide a sure indication of the club's credentials as we progress further into the new season.

Chris Linnell

Chris is a freelance football writer from Wiltshire, England. He is currently studying Modern History and Politics at the University of Liverpool. He has written for various other sites, including the Boot Room and Bleacher Report. His work has also featured on Eurosport.